The skincare world is in a constant state of flux. Old “holy grail” products fall by the wayside as researchers discover the latest and greatest ingredients to protect skin from premature aging. Since no one has invented a time machine (yet!), it’s best to be diligent about using proven products that deliver on their core promises.
In case you missed part one of our superhero antioxidant series, you can read it here. We covered three key antioxidants (vitamins C and E as well as ferulic acid) and the way they work to keep your skin plump, spot-free, and moisturized. On their own, they each have their merits, but when used together, they form an anti-aging trinity like no other. Read on to learn why the combination is so effective and why you need all three in your routine.
The Sun Is Both Blessing and Bane
One of our most necessary resources is also one of the most harmful to the human body. While sunlight is a good source of vitamin D, that sun exposure comes with a price. As you know from reading sunscreen labels (we hope), both UVA and UVB rays penetrate skin and can cause cell damage. Whether you tan or burn, the changes in your skin are a form of oxidation that could’ve been prevented by slathering on a nice layer of sunblock.
Bulk Up on Antioxidants
When considering your body’s overall health, antioxidants work both internally and topically. Eating an orange provides your body with the nutritional benefits of vitamin C, but your skin needs to receive those same antioxidants topically in order to benefit. The same is true for vitamin E and ferulic acid. In a 2013 National Institutes of Health (NIH) study, researchers discovered that a combination of all three could make vitamin C eight times more powerful. And there’s more good news! According to a 2016 research study, ferulic acid makes both L-ascorbic acid and dl-alpha-Tocopherol more stable “and doubles photoprotection to solar-stimulated irradiation of [the] skin from fourfold to eightfold.”
Crafting a Super Serum
Armed with scientific evidence, we contracted with a compounding pharmacy to create a serum that contains all three ingredients in the exact amounts that were determined to be the most effective. The result is a potent combination of 15% L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C), .1% dl-alpha-Tocopherol (vitamin E), and 0.5% ferulic acid. Together, these antioxidants stimulate collagen production, protect against free radical damage, reduce hyperpigmentation, and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles—all in one bottle! We also included hyaluronic acid and astaxanthin (another powerhouse antioxidant).
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If you decide to add our CEF Serum to your routine (and why wouldn’t you?), introduce it slowly either in the morning or the evening after cleansing. These potent ingredients need some “alone time” with your skin, so apply it 15–20 minutes after washing your face, then allow it to work for 15–20 minutes before applying other serum products, moisturizer, and sunscreen.
To achieving your skincare goals,
Team Reflect
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